Full details have been confirmed for Manchester's biggest outdoor England fanzone, which will open on Wednesday (July 15) for the World Cup semi-final match against Argentina. The fan screening event, Road to Victory, will take place at Castlefield Bowl, a new outdoor city centre location, capable of hosting up to 9,000 fans.
Event Details and Entry Policies
Manchester City Council has confirmed the full details, including strict entry policies. The standing-only space will open doors from 5:30 pm, with last entry at 6:45 pm. Fans are urged to arrive early due to expected large queues. Pre-match entertainment includes live DJ sets and a festival-like atmosphere, with bars and food stalls on site.
No bags larger than A4 size are allowed. Strict guidelines prohibit glass bottles, cans, fireworks, flares, liquids, glasses, aerosols (including perfumes and makeup), food, drink, camp chairs, stools, umbrellas, and chewing gum. Bag searches will be conducted upon entry.
Quotes from Officials
Councillor Shazia Butt, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure at Manchester City Council, said: "Excitement about England's journey in the World Cup and reaching the semi-final is at fever pitch across the whole country, including here in Manchester. The atmosphere in living rooms, community clubs, pubs and venues across the city is going to be electric as people get together to enjoy the match - and nowhere more so than amongst the crowd in Castlefield Bowl."
David Norris, of Road to Victory, said: "The latter stages of the World Cup always create unforgettable moments and we wanted to create a setting that matches that occasion. Castlefield Bowl gives us the opportunity to bring thousands of fans together in one of Manchester's most iconic outdoor venues for what will be an incredible celebration of football."
Accessibility and Tickets
An accessible viewing area is available on a first-come, first-served basis for fans in wheelchairs or those unable to stand. They must pre-register by emailing info@roadtovictory.co.uk by 4 pm on Wednesday. Tickets cost £16.90 each (including booking fees) and are available online at the Road to Victory website. The event is for ages 18 and over.
